A Coin Worth a Fortune?
Imagine finding a dollar coin in your wallet that could be worth nearly a million bucks. Sounds like a dream, right? But a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar could turn that dream into reality. This small, silver-colored coin, often mistaken for a quarter, has a special feature that makes it a collector’s jackpot. Experts say some of these coins, valued as high as $880,000, might still be hiding in everyday change. Let’s dive into what makes this coin so special and how you can spot one.
The Story Behind the Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first made in 1979 to honor the women’s rights pioneer who fought for women’s right to vote. It was a big deal—the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty. But the coin wasn’t a hit with the public. Its size and color were too similar to a quarter, causing confusion at cash registers. By 1981, the U.S. Mint stopped making these coins for regular use and only produced a small batch for collectors. Some of these rare coins slipped into circulation, and that’s where the treasure hunt begins.
Why Is the 1981 Version So Valuable?
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth just a dollar, but the 1981 version is different. The coins made that year were mostly for collector sets, not for spending. A few, though, ended up in pockets and purses by mistake—maybe from bank errors or broken-up collector sets. What makes certain 1981 coins worth up to $880,000 is a rare feature called the “Type 2” mint mark, along with near-perfect condition. These coins are like hidden gems, waiting to be found in coin jars or cash drawers.
The Mark to Look For
The key to spotting this valuable coin is the “S” mint mark, which shows it was made at the San Francisco Mint. You’ll find it just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder on the front of the coin. The rare “Type 2” version has a clear, sharp “S” with clean, serif-like edges. Most 1981 coins have a “Type 1” mint mark, which looks more like a blurry or blob-like “S.” You might need a magnifying glass to tell the difference. Also, look for a shiny, mirror-like finish, which means it’s a proof coin—one made specially for collectors.
| Feature | Type 1 Mint Mark | Type 2 Mint Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Blurry, blob-like “S” | Clear, sharp “S” with serif edges |
| Value | $1 to a few dollars | Up to $880,000 (in perfect condition) |
| Rarity | Common | Extremely rare |
How to Check Your Coins
If you have a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, don’t spend it yet! Here’s what to do:
- Check the date: It must be 1981.
- Look for the “S” mint mark above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder.
- Examine the “S” with a magnifying glass: Is it sharp and clear (Type 2) or blurry (Type 1)?
- Check the condition: Does it have a shiny, mirror-like finish with no scratches?
- Don’t clean the coin: Cleaning can ruin its value.
- Get it checked by a pro: Take it to a coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
These steps could help you find a coin worth a fortune. Even if it’s not the $880,000 version, some 1981 coins can still be worth hundreds or thousands.
Why Are These Coins So Rare?
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars were never meant for everyday use, which makes any circulated ones special. The Type 2 proof coins were made in very small numbers, and only a handful are known to exist in perfect condition (graded PR70 by PCGS or NGC). Some of these coins escaped into circulation through mix-ups, like estate sales or bank mistakes. Because they look so much like quarters, many were spent without a second thought. That’s why checking your change could lead to a life-changing discovery.
A Treasure Hunt for Everyone
The idea of finding an $880,000 coin in your pocket is exciting, and it’s not impossible. Coin collecting is getting more popular, and stories like this make people dig through their spare change. The 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony dollar is a reminder that everyday items can hold huge value. So, next time you get a dollar coin, take a closer look. That little “S” could be your ticket to a big payday. Check your wallets, piggy banks, and old coin jars—you never know what treasure might be hiding in plain sight